NHRC Calls for Justice Over Kano Public Commentator's Death

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday called for a prompt, thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the killing of Ibrahim Danshagamu, a Kano-based public commentator.

The call is contained in a statement issued by the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, in Abuja.

"The authorities must establish not only those who carried out the attack but also the motive, sponsors, financiers, organisers and anyone who aided or facilitated the killing. The commission demands that all suspects against whom credible evidence is established be expeditiously prosecuted. The investigation must not be allowed to stall or disappear into the system," he warned.

Ojukwu said the commission received with shock a report by the Kano State Police Command indicating that Danshagamu was attacked by unknown assailants who forcibly entered his residence on Monday. He described the killing as a grave violation of the fundamental right to life, guaranteed under Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.

He expressed particular concern over the implications of the killing for freedom of expression and civic participation, noting that Danshagamu was widely known for his commentary on governance and public policy. "Citizens must be able to express their opinions, criticise public authorities and participate in public discourse without fear of violence, intimidation or reprisal," Ojukwu said.

While acknowledging that police had arrested two suspects and commenced investigations, he urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Kano State Police Command to treat the matter as one of urgent national importance.

Ojukwu further called on the Federal Government, the Kano State Government, and all security agencies to immediately review and strengthen protective measures for journalists and public commentators. He stressed that as Nigeria approaches a critical political and electoral period, violence must never be allowed to become a response to criticism, dissent, or public commentary, adding that democratic participation can only thrive where citizens feel safe to speak, question, and disagree.

He extended condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Danshagamu, assuring them that the NHRC would closely monitor the investigation and engage relevant authorities to ensure justice is pursued to its logical conclusion.

"In a democracy, dissent is not a crime. Criticism must be answered with dialogue and accountability, not violence," he said. "The time for condemnation alone was over, and the perpetrators must be found, the truth established and justice done."